General Units with UART Port Availability
UART communication port availability, common applications and identification guidance
Overview
This article provides information about which General air conditioning units include a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter) communication port, what the port is used for, and how availability varies across models and production years.
1. What Is a UART Port?
The UART port is a communication interface located on the indoor unit control board. It may allow connection of compatible accessories and communication devices.
- Optional Wi-Fi modules or zone-control interfaces
- Compatible third-party control or communication interfaces
- Diagnostic or service equipment on supported models
Accessories that may use a compatible UART connection include:
- anywAiR® Wi-Fi adaptors
- UTY-TFSX or UTY-TFNXZ2 interface modules
- Intesis and approved third-party communication gateways
2. Units Equipped with UART Ports
| Production Year | Series / Models | UART Port Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 to current | Wall-mounted split systems, including selected ASTG, ASTH and ABTG series | Typically one UART port | Confirm compatibility using the model-specific wiring diagram or accessory documentation. |
| 2022 to current | Cassette and ducted systems, including selected ARTC, ARXC, AUTG and ARY series | One or two ports on selected models | Some models provide additional connectivity for compatible accessories. |
| 2022 to current | Selected VRF indoor units | Model dependent | UART availability and intended use must be confirmed against the applicable technical documentation. |
| Before 2022 | Selected models only | Not standard across all models | Check the indoor unit wiring diagram, service manual and accessory compatibility list. |
3. Dual UART Ports
Certain commercial indoor units and ducted models may include two compatible communication connectors. Depending on the model, this may allow more than one approved accessory to be connected.
Possible applications may include:
- A compatible Wi-Fi adaptor
- An approved wired control interface
- A compatible third-party gateway
The presence of two connectors does not automatically mean that any two devices can be connected simultaneously. Confirm the permitted combination, connector assignment and accessory limitations in the applicable installation documentation.
4. Identifying the UART Port
The connection is generally located on the indoor unit control PCB. Connector labels vary by model and may include:
The connector may be a three-pin or four-pin socket. Depending on the model and accessory, the connection may provide power, ground and communication conductors.
Refer to the indoor unit wiring diagram and accessory installation instructions for the exact connector location, voltage, pin assignment and communication function.
5. Common Uses
| Accessory / Function | May Use UART | Description |
|---|---|---|
| anywAiR® Wi-Fi adaptor | Yes | Provides compatible app-based control where supported by the indoor unit. |
| Wired control interface | Model dependent | Some interfaces use a dedicated communication connector rather than a UART accessory port. |
| Third-party interface | Yes, where approved | Enables compatible BMS, Modbus or home-automation integration. |
| Service or diagnostic equipment | Model dependent | Used for supported configuration, monitoring or diagnostic functions. |
6. Service and Installation Notes
Port availability, connector labels and accessory compatibility vary between indoor units.
Ensure the indoor unit power supply is safely isolated before accessing the PCB or connecting an accessory.
Do not connect multiple devices to one connector or use a splitter unless the arrangement is specifically approved.
Connecting an accessory to the wrong PCB socket may damage the indoor PCB, accessory or communication circuit.
7. Summary
| Unit Type | Typical Availability | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Residential wall-mounted split | Common on newer models | Confirm the indoor model and accessory compatibility. |
| Ducted or cassette | One or more connectors on selected models | Additional connectors do not guarantee simultaneous accessory support. |
| VRF indoor unit | Varies by model and series | Refer to the applicable technical and accessory documentation. |
| Older indoor models | Variable | A UART-compatible connector may not be fitted. |
Before ordering or installing any Wi-Fi adaptor, interface or third-party gateway, confirm the complete indoor unit model number and consult the applicable wiring diagram and accessory compatibility information.